Recovery Connections Online: Empowered or Powerless, You’re in Charge
The conscious and unconscious effects of social distancing
Decades of research shows that social connectedness is linked to both psychological and physical health including a stronger immune system, faster recover from disease and even longevity.
According to the late John McCain, the worst part of the torture he endured in Vietnam was solitary confinement: "It's an awful thing, solitary. It crushes your spirit and weakens your resistance more effectively than any other form of mistreatment."
At a time of “social distancing” and quarantine it is up to everyone to find the right means to maintain social integration from a distance.
Maintaining community is foundational to the 12 step recovery programs. As described in chapter 2 of the book of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), “We are like passengers of a great liner the moment after rescue from shipwreck, however, our joy in escape from disaster does not subside as we go our individual ways. The feeling of having shared in a common peril is one of the elements in the powerful cement that binds us.
Each day, somewhere in the world, recovery begins when one alcoholic talks with another alcoholic, sharing experience, strength, and hope. AA Pg. xxvi.
Adapting to the drastic changes brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, AA meetings are going virtual, giving us the opportunity to stay socially connected.
Here's how it works, AA chapters are using services like Facebook, Zoom and Skype, allowing members to participate in video chats at regularly scheduled times. There are also dedicated phone numbers for individuals to call.
The Mayo clinic tells us that “laughter is no joke”, it stimulates organs, activate and relieves your stress response and soothes tension. You will always find laughter in the rooms of AA. Take the first step and connect.